This is a bit late going up because I have been pretty backed up with work, but I’ve been wanting to say “thank you” to The New Orleans Saints organization and players since the end of this past season. I can’t express my gratitude enough for the transformation that’s taken place in our team over the past 5 years, and how great it is to be a Saints fan today.

My first memories of being in the Superdome for a Saints game came from the early 80’s when my grandfather started taking me to games, and then going with my dad afterwards as I grew in age. There’s something really special about being in the dome and around the excitement of the crowd there.

It was never easy being a Saints fan though, because we never knew which Saints would show up from week to week, and frequently we just dealt with all of the disappointing losses as “part of the territory” (being a Saints fan).

Thank God it’s not that way anymore. The Mickey Loomis / Sean Payton era has produced teams where we “expect” players to come out and give 110% on Sunday, and make the playoffs at the end of the season. This team’s transformation is one of the most amazing things I have seen in my lifetime, and I’m proud as hell to be a Saints fan today.

I’ll never forget the days of old, and I keep my expectations in check.

I’m grateful when they make the playoffs. Any year your NFL team makes the playoffs is a great year in my opinion, regardless of the outcome.

Last season was something really exceptional though. When I heard other fans complaining about getting beat by the 49ers, I remembered the Saints of old, and my gratitude was quickly restored.

Forget about all of the incredible records the Saints broke last year. My pride in this team goes a lot deeper than superficial numbers on the books.

When the Saints went out swinging against the 49ers in that playoff game, it was an epic battle fought to the bitter end, by two teams who stepped up to extraordinary levels.

Many teams faced with the adversity the Saints faced in the first quarter of that game would have folded under pressure, and been counted out. Not these guys. They fought to the bitter end, and give or take a few plays, could have easily won it.

Thanks guys, you did a heck of a job. You should hold your heads high and be proud.